Today's reviewed books are great examples of entertaining, exciting books that beg to be read aloud to 8- and 9-year-olds, and are equally suitable for independent readers age 10 and older.

An 8- or 9-year-old can comprehend much more difficult material than they are able to read independently. Don't make kids wait to be exposed to sensational stories. Read these and other stories aloud. It not only benefits the child, but is a great way to spend time together.

Books to BorrowThe following book is available at many public libraries.

"Sheep" by Valerie Hobbs, Farrar Straus Giroux, 115 pages; read aloud: age 8 and older; read yourself: age 10 and older.When the dog was born, he waited excitedly for the day he could join the older dogs and help herd the sheep, and when that day came, it was glorious. The young dog knew this was what he was meant to be, but not long thereafter, his life changes dramatically.Torn from his family and in a strange place where there are no sheep, the young dog begins his journey, deciding that somehow, even if it takes the rest of his life, he will find his family and the sheep again. For awhile, the Goat Man cares for him, sharing his food, friendship and life philosophy. Later, the dog winds up in the hands of a cruel circus man who uses a whip. Finally able to escape, the dog begins to believe he'll never find what he's looking for, and at that moment, he meets a boy who needs him as much as he needs the boy.An extraordinary and rich novel, "Sheep" will tug at your heart long after the last page is read.

Librarian's ChoiceLibrary: Mars Public Library, 107 Grand Ave., Mars

Library Director: Mary Jo Simons

Children's Librarian: Joyce PappertChoices this week:

"Chocolate Island" by Karen Dolby;

"Camp Confidential" series by Melissa Morgan;

"Do Not Open This Book!" by Michaela Muntean

Books to BuyThe following books are available at favorite bookstores.

"Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer" by John Grisham, Dutton, 2010, 263 pages, $16.99 hardcover; read aloud: age 8 and older; read yourself: age 10 and older.Thirteen-year-old Theodore Boone knows a lot about the law, and is, at least in his opinion, an amateur attorney. After all, both of Theo's parents are lawyers, he is friends with Judge Gantry and just about everyone else in town who has anything to do with the law, and has grown up listening to legal discussions all of his life. Theo's dream is to be a great trial lawyer, and his quick mind and persistence help move him along toward that goal.When a murder occurs in Theo's sleepy little town, it is all everyone can talk about. Theo is interested, but when he becomes privy to knowledge and evidence that the suspect is indeed guilty, Theo finds himself embroiled in a dangerous situation. The suspect appears to have a watertight case proving his innocence, but only Theo knows the truth.Riveting from start to finish, "Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer" is loaded with suspense, intrigue and fast-paced action. This, of course, is not surprising, considering it's written by the international best-selling author of legal thrillers for adults, John Grisham. Nothing more needs to be said, except this one is a "must-read."

"A Nest for Celeste: A Story About Art, Inspiration, and the Meaning of Home" written and illustrated by Henry Cole, Katherine Tegen Books/HarperCollins, 2010, 342 pages, $16.99 hardcover; read aloud: age 8 and older; read yourself: age 10 and older.Celeste the mouse has been tossed out of her cozy home beneath the floorboards of a family dining room. The world above is dangerous, especially the fearsome, hungry cat that roams the house. As Celeste scurries to find food, safety, and a new home, she finds friendship and a safe haven with Joseph, apprentice to the famous artist John James Audubon.Celeste never imagined such a wonderful life, full of the love she and Joseph share. To make her life even better, she befriends a singing thrush named Cornelius and a huge osprey named Lafayette. It seems as if nothing could happen to disrupt Celeste's perfect world.Wonderful pencil illustrations combine with this charming story about friendship and where home is. A wonderful read-aloud or independent reader, "A Nest for Celeste" is perfect in every way.Nationally syndicated, Kendal Rautzhan writes and lectures on children's literature. She can be reached via e-mail: kendal@sunlink.net.